The concerns of Chautauqua residents have garnered much attention in the media, and that is to their credit. It is important for the media, the town and its leadership to hear these concerns.

At the same time, it is equally important that they be balanced with the concerns of residents in all our villages.

I would like to see equal attention given to issues such as the overcrowding at St. Davids Public School, traffic calming improvements being made, and the need for community recreational spaces just to name a few. All of which directly affect the quality of daily life for our residents.

As a councillor, I respect and admire the passion of Chautauqua residents who have spoken out about the draft official plan. Their community cares deeply about preserving its unique character, and their voices are an important part of this process.

At the same time, it is important to remember that this is still a draft, nothing has been finalized, and council, along with town professionals, continues to seek public input.

The language and details can — and will — be debated, refined, and shaped through community consultation before any decisions are approved, and it is equally important that attention be balanced across the concerns of residents in all our villages.

At St. Davids Public School, a fifth portable has just been delivered to deal with severe overcrowding. Half the playground swings have been removed, classrooms are being set up in the basement, and students are losing half their library space to make room for desks.

This is a serious concern for families, and it deserves as much attention as any planning debate.

This is not to diminish the efforts of Chautauqua residents or the importance of their concerns, but as a broader community, we must not lose sight of the many other pressing issues that also demand leadership, advocacy, and action.

I encourage residents to remain engaged and vocal in local decision-making. That civic energy is one of the greatest strengths of our town.

At the same time, it is important that feedback be shared in a positive and constructive way. Respectful dialogue not only ensures that every voice is heard, but also helps council continue to be transparent and responsive.

Media, town leadership, and residents alike all share in the responsibility of fostering balanced, accurate conversations that strengthen trust and keep our community focused on solutions.

Let’s apply that same energy across the board to planning, to infrastructure, to schools, and most importantly, to the future well-being of our children and families.

Adriana Vizzari
NOTL